Discover cycling trends and get inspired for your travels in 2025!
According to Hilton's annual trends report, “7 out of 10 global travelers like to stay active while traveling, and 1 in 5 travelers plans outdoor adventure activities in 2025.”
It’s becoming increasingly clear that the popularity of active tourism is growing, with cycling being one of the most popular ways of active travel. Not only does cycling have positive effects on health, but it is also an eco-friendly way of traveling.
HerzegovinaBike has been developing the best cycling tours in the region for many years, and here are some suggestions we recommend for your cycling trips in 2025.
1. Cycling Away from the Crowds
Popular destinations such as Barcelona or the Balearic Islands attract millions of tourists each year, but the real adventure awaits on lesser-known, equally spectacular routes. Additionally, 2024 saw a significant reaction and increased local pressure, with calls for governments to take greater action in combating overtourism.
We believe there are many quieter alternatives for cyclists that offer unique experiences that take them far from the crowds. Don’t miss these important destinations...
Recommendation
ĆIRO Cycling Trail: You’ve probably already heard of the famous Old bridge in Mostar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the pearl of the Adriatic, UNESCO City Dubrovnik. But did you know that these two destinations are connected by an incredible cycling route that follows the historic narrow-gauge railway, Ćiro? If you're in search of a cycling adventure that will fill your soul with unforgettable memories, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history, the Ciro Trail is the adventure for you.
Cycle the path of the historic Ćiro narrow-gauge railway, linking Mostar with Dubrovnik. This route takes you through the picturesque landscapes of Herzegovina, passing vineyards, rivers, breathtaking destinations, and traditional villages. It is ideal for cyclists looking for quiet roads and authentic experiences away from the tourist crowds.
Recommendation
Trebižat Heritage Cycling Trail: For all cycling and adventure tourism enthusiasts, the “Trebižat Heritage Cycling Trail” offers the perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and authentic Herzegovinian gastronomy. This 55.6-kilometer route offers an unforgettable riding experience through the Tihaljina-Mlade-Trebižat river valley, passing through three municipalities: Grude, Ljubuški, and Čapljina.
Riding this route takes you past a series of natural wonders, including the spectacular waterfalls of Kravicu, Koćušu, Čeveljuša, and Božjak, as well as springs like Peć Mlini, Klokun, Vrioštice, and Studenčice. Every step of the route is steeped in history – from the Ravlić Cave and the Roman camp Gračine to the medieval fortress Herceg Stjepana and the late antique villa Mogorjelo. Culture lovers won’t be able to resist visiting the oldest museum in Bosnia and Herzegovina, located in the Franciscan monastery on Humac (1884.).
2. Gravel Biking Adventures
Gravel cycling, bikepacking, gravel touring… whatever you call it, this cycling trend is becoming increasingly popular, and Bosnia and Herzegovina is turning into a true paradise for adventure lovers!
According to Strava’s 2023 global trends report, there was a 55% increase in gravel rides compared to the previous year. Google search data, comparing bikepacking with bike touring, also confirms this growth, which continued into 2024.
With its diverse landscapes and a network of gravel paths, mountain roads, and forgotten railway tracks, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers endless opportunities to explore off the main roads. Mountain passes, picturesque canyons, vast plateaus, and authentic villages provide a unique cycling experience, where every turn reveals a new natural spectacle.
Gravel cycling here isn’t just about riding – it’s an adventure that awakens the senses and creates stories to remember forever.
Recommendation
Franciscana Route: Follow the trails that connect Franciscan monasteries and sanctuaries throughout Herzegovina. This route offers a spiritual and historical dimension to cycling, with peaceful gravel roads and magical landscapes.
The Franciscana route in Bosnia and Herzegovina is a unique cycling adventure that combines rich history, spirituality, and pristine nature. Riding along this route, you pass through picturesque villages and historical sites, connecting the famous Franciscan monasteries that have been custodians of faith, culture, and education in this part of Europe for centuries. The route offers a special journey through the past, allowing cyclists to discover stories about the Franciscan heritage, medieval churches, ancient manuscripts, and museum collections that bear witness to the rich cultural treasure of the region.
Cycling through valleys, forest trails, and gentle landscapes provides a sense of peace and connection with nature, while ascents to holy places reward with unforgettable panoramas. This route is not just a physical challenge but also a spiritual experience, ideal for those wishing to deepen their understanding of the cultural heritage of the Franciscans in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Franciscana route offers the opportunity to explore hidden gems, meet local people, and enjoy hospitality, traditional cuisine, and an authentic atmosphere. Step into a story that connects faith, nature, and adventure, and discover the charm of a destination that nourishes both the soul and the mind.
3. Mountain Biking Is Your Thing
Mountain biking is the perfect activity for nature lovers and adrenaline sports enthusiasts who want to enjoy mountain regions and bike parks. This discipline combines physical activity, enjoyment of nature, and the excitement of riding on challenging terrain, making it an ideal choice for all ages and fitness levels.
Bike parks, often located in mountainous areas, are especially popular among mountain biking enthusiasts. These parks usually offer various trails, suitable for all experience levels – from beginners to advanced riders. The trails are carefully designed to provide safety and enjoyment, while also challenging riders to test their speed, balance, and riding technique.
Besides the physical challenge, mountain biking in the mountains and bike parks offers emotional and psychological benefits – a connection with nature, stress relief, improved concentration, and coordination, as well as a sense of achievement. Mountain biking also contributes to improving physical endurance, strength, and flexibility, and is an excellent way to enhance cardiovascular health.
For nature lovers and active life enthusiasts, mountain biking is the perfect way to connect with the environment, test your limits, and enjoy an exciting ride.
Recommendation
Blidinje Nature Park: Located in the heart of Herzegovina, it is a true marvel of nature. With its impressive mountains, rich flora and fauna, and untouched landscapes, Blidinje is the perfect choice for all nature lovers and active life enthusiasts. In addition to being known for its unique ecosystem, Blidinje Nature Park also offers excellent cycling routes that allow you to explore this beautiful area on two wheels.
The park offers six cycling routes, suited to different experience levels, which will satisfy all mountain biking enthusiasts. Each route offers unique challenges, as well as unforgettable panoramic views of mountains, forests, meadows, and mountain lakes.
One of the most exciting cycling routes in Blidinje Nature Park takes you to the mountain peak Pločno, which rises 2,228 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest peaks in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
4. Participating in Cycling Events
Herzegovina, with its impressive mountains, pristine landscapes, and crystal-clear rivers, has become one of the most attractive destinations for cyclists of all levels. This part of Bosnia and Herzegovina offers perfect conditions for cycling, and the cycling routes that pass through rural areas, nature parks, and cultural monuments provide a unique experience.
Herzegovina is not only a destination for cyclists but also a real haven for cycling events enthusiasts, as it has been standing out in recent years for hosting top-tier events. Among the most well-known and exciting cycling events in the region are the Blidinje BIKE Festival and Ćiro bike events, and it’s important to note that Herzegovina hosts more than 30 events annually organized by local clubs.
Recommendation
Blidinje BIKE Festival: : This three-day cycling event brings together cycling enthusiasts from all over the world, and in 2025, it will mark its seventh edition. This unique festival, held in Blidinje Nature Park, has become one of the most significant cycling gatherings in the region, and the organizers have taken the event to an even higher level this year.
In 2025, the Blidinje BIKE Festival once again finds its place in the International Cycling Union (UCI) calendar, becoming a high UCI Class 1 event. This is a significant step in the development of the festival, which will attract even more professional cyclists and cycling enthusiasts.
Additionally, the festival will once again host the Balkan Championship, where athletes from 12 countries of the Balkan Federation will compete for the prestigious title of Balkan Champion. This event offers an excellent opportunity for cyclists of all levels to enjoy technically demanding trails, the stunning nature of Blidinje, and international competition.
The Blidinje BIKE Festival not only promotes cycling in Herzegovina but also puts our region on the map of important international cycling events.
Ćiro Trail Cycling Events: They have become a unique opportunity for all cycling enthusiasts to enjoy the beauties of Herzegovina, exploring its rich history, nature, and culture. The Ćiro Railway, which once connected Mostar, Dubrovnik, Trebinje, and surrounding areas, now serves as a perfect route for cycling adventures. These rides allow participants to embark on a journey through this historic part of Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina, enjoying the stunning landscapes and tranquil atmosphere the area offers.
In 2025, the HerzegovinaBike association, in collaboration with local cycling clubs, will once again organize 6 Ćiro Railway cycling rides across Herzegovina. This cycle of cycling events, which brings together cycling enthusiasts with lovers of history and culture, will once again gather numerous cyclists from different parts of the region and the world.
The first Ćiro cycling ride of 2025 – Mostar to Čapljina (link)
The first cycling event of 2025 will be held on March 23, and the route will lead from Mostar to Čapljina. This ride, following the path of the legendary Ćiro train, is approximately 50 kilometers long and offers cyclists the chance to enjoy riding through the gentle terrains of Herzegovina. The starting point is in Mostar, where cyclists will head southeast, passing picturesque areas along the Neretva River, and reaching Čapljina, a city rich in history and tradition.
Follow HerzegovinaBike and discover the wealth of cycling routes offered by Herzegovina at www.herzegovinabike.ba. This region, with its beautiful landscapes, historic trails, and pristine natural beauty, offers the perfect combination of health, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. Each cycling route in Herzegovina is filled with moments that will inspire you and leave you with memories for a lifetime. Ready for a new adventure? Join us and discover everything cycling in Herzegovina has to offer!
